Scientists are warning that there is a 'severe risk' of catching a cold this week with 9.7m people across Britain catching the nasty virus.

They issued the health alert as the recent icy weather took its toll, bringing down 15 per cent of the population with sniffles and sore throats.

The common cold is so-called because it's the most common disease suffered by humans.

Information on cold and flu levels is collated from weekly samples taken from more than 90,000 people nationwide at GPs' surgeries, hospitals, nursing homes and pharmacies.

So how can I get rid of the common cold?

The short answer is 'No' - doctors cannot cure the common cold. But there are lots of things you can do to make sure you are on the mend sooner rather than later.

The official advice is that we can all ease the burden on GPs and hospitals, sufferers should treat themselves with traditional or herbal medicines and ask pharmacists for advice, especially if taking other medication.

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1 - Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Make an ACV tea to sip and/or gargle. Use 2 tablespoons ACV, 1-2 tablespoons honey (to taste), lemon juice (again, to taste) and a little hot water to dilute. It's potent but the stronger it is, the faster it will work (of course you can change the amounts of everything to your liking). Use it 3-4 times a day (less is ok too but the more you do it, the better the results).

Plants at Riverford (Image: Jason Ingram)

2 - Drink ginger, honey and lemon tea with sage

Ginger helps bring down inflammation, clear congestion and support the immune system. Drink 2-3 cups of fresh ginger tea daily. Freshly grated ginger root (about 2 teaspoons) in a cup of hot water is best. Add lemon for Vitamin C, known to support the immune system and fight off colds.

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5 - Get vaccinated if you are at risk

The school flu vaccination programme has been extended to include eight to nine year olds

Those at high risk, such as the elderly, should ensure they are vaccinated each year.

6 - Wash your hands regularly

People can prevent the virus from spreading by washing their hands regularly (Image: Getty)

Sounds obvious but - washing your hands regularly and avoiding contact with anyone with a cold, as this is the easiest way to stop cold and flu viruses spreading.

7 - Soothe a sore throat

A saltwater gargle (half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water) is supposed to help cure a sore throat. Little children might not like this but you can try ice chips.

Northcombe Water Treatment Works is South West Water’s fifth largest water treatment works and supplies large areas of North Devon including Barnstaple, Bideford and Torrington.

8 - Keep hydrated

If you do come down with a cold or the flu, then drink plenty of fluids - at least eight glasses of water a day.

9 - Add moisture to the air.

A cool mist vaporizer or humidifier can add moisture to your home, which might help loosen congestion. Change the water daily, and clean the unit according to the manufacturer's instructions. Don't use steam, which hasn't been shown to help and may cause burns.